Moving to a new country is a process that never quite end when you have unpacked your luggage in your new home. Moving can only be completed once you have settled down and made friends. Developing a social network or community is essential against a complete change of scenery. The local social fabric will also serve as a support system in times of need or crisis. Kuala Lumpur offers the opportunity to bond through the following means.
Events at your embassy
Embassies and consulates in the city often organize events and festivals to celebrate Independence Days or important holidays of their representative states. There lies a great opportunity to meet other expats who share similar experiences and to make friends in town.
Work and school
Your workplace is perhaps the best place to start making friends. This actually the best place where you can be sure to meet new people. Be sure to introduce yourself in person or by email, and don't hesitate to strike up conversations with your new colleagues. Malaysians can sometimes be reluctant to strike up a conversation themselves, but that doesn't make them any less welcoming. Once you break the ice, you'll make friends and build community inside and outside of your workplace. Establishing a professional network in Kuala Lumpur can be a decisive first step in meeting new friends. Don't forget your business cards; they are very popular in Malaysia.
Universities in Kuala Lumpur are also great places to make friends. If you are starting a new course, remember that everyone else is new and looking to make friends. Make the most of icebreaker events and other such activities organized for networking. If you are in Kuala Lumpur for an exchange program, you can always make friends by introducing yourself and asking your local classmates for advice on what they suggest you do during your stay.
Volunteering
In Kuala Lumpur, volunteering with local charities and soup kitchens is a great way to meet people who share your values, while contributing to the well-being of your new community. Opportunities for volunteering are numerous, namely at various local festivals and events, which take place throughout the year. Festivals often launch calls for volunteers. Open stages and community gatherings will also allow you to meet the organizers and become a volunteer.
Since the Covid-19 pandemic hit Malaysia, festivals have become rarer in the country. However, since the gradual reopening of the borders started by the end of 2021, cultural life is slowly regaining its rights, especially in Kuala Lumpur.
Trips and clubs
Once you've settled in, traveling outside the city to enjoy Malaysia's diverse cultures and landscapes will allow you to meet people from all over the country and build a wider social network. The local culture of Kuala Lumpur is certainly very rich but broadening your horizon will allow you to have a further glimpse of the richness of this country as a whole.
Diving trips and food tours are prime examples. In addition, associations often organize group trips that help build friendships based on common interests. Join a cooking class, a tai chi or yoga group in your neighborhood, or one of the many jogging groups that meet in city parks, to get to know each other.
If you're really into sports, group activities like rock climbing, football or rugby are also available. Local clubs and neighborhood teams provide a solid foundation, based on which you can integrate into existing communities and expand your network.
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